EVERETT, Wash. — A new crackdown on bikini baristas may be coming soon to Everett.
On Wednesday, the city council is debating two ordinances, one of which would require scantily-clad coffee makers to wear more clothes.
The city attorney says this is not about placating people who are offended by women wearing bikinis in coffee stands.
Instead, it's an effort to eliminate prostitution and other illegal activities the city says is common at some bikini barista stands.
The Everett Police Department has been conducting undercover investigations the past several years, leading to multiple criminal convictions.
They say employees are often pressured into flashing customers for cash tips or even performing sex acts.
As a result, the city council is considering two ordinances. One would require a dress code for what they call quick service restaurants.
Specifically, workers would have to wear tank tops and shorts at a minimum.
The other legislation would expand the definition of lewd conduct aimed at stopping flashing by baristas.
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Essentially, it would give police and prosecutors more flexibility to prosecute business owners, who could face a $5,000 fine and jail time if they're found to be facilitating lewd conduct by employees.
The council will consider the ordinances at their meeting Wednesday.
No vote is scheduled yet, but that could come in August.